Franchisors being sought to enter The bfa and HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards

As the UK moves from recession to recovery, the franchisors that innovated, excelled and thrived under economic pressure are being sought to enter the leading industry awards for franchising. The bfa & HSBC Franchisor of the Year Awards 2010, supported by Express Newspapers, is inviting inspiring stories of achievement and outstanding examples of excellence from franchisors that have beaten the odds in the last year.

Now celebrating its 21st year, the awards recognise and celebrate the best in ethical franchising. 2010 is set to be more interesting than ever, as competing franchisors demonstrate how they have risen to the challenge of managing, securing and growing a franchise network in a recession.

For the award winners, the accolade not only crowns them best in the industry for customers, suppliers and potential franchisees alike to see but also provides a welcome opportunity to motivate staff and franchisees, recognising their hard work.

2009 Gold Winners, Countrywide Ground Maintenance, said: "It is a magnificent honour to win the bfa Franchisor of the Year Awards. It is also testament to the hard work and dedication of the head office support staff and franchisees."

Applications are invited for three awards – the bfa & HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award supported by Express Newspapers; the HSBC Franchisee Support Award and the Express Newspapers Brand Builder of the Year Award.

Cathryn Hayes, Head of Franchising, HSBC, said: "As we move into recovery, now is the time for businesses to ensure they are well placed to survive and thrive. The HSBC Franchisee Support Award celebrates the franchisors that have put solid structures in place to ensure their franchisees have the best possible chance of success."

Geraldine Haenow, Advertising Group Head, Express Newspapers, said: "Building a successful brand requires many skills yet for franchisors its just one of the jobs they have to fulfil. We’re looking to recognise franchisors who have found innovate and effective routes to building and increasing the strength of their brand."

Brian Smart, Director General – bfa, said: "The bfa & HSBC Franchisor of the Year Award, open to Full Members of the bfa, provides the platform for businesses to truly shine and demonstrate that they are leading the way in franchising best practice. These awards are the industry’s widest recognised and most powerful stage to celebrate excellence and inspire the next generation of franchisors and franchisees."

The deadline for entries is 31 March 2010 and national finalists will be invited for interview with the judging panel on 29 or 30 April with winners being announced at a gala dinner on 2 June 2010.

bfa members should be receiving entry forms in the post, additional entry forms can be downloaded from the Members section of www.thebfa.org. For assistance please call the bfa on 01865 379 892.